US midterm elections focus on economy and congressional control

As the November 3 midterm elections approach, the United States faces a highly polarized political landscape. Republicans are fighting to maintain control of the House and Senate, with President Donald Trump urging supporters to vote as if his own name were on the ballot. Some Republican lawmakers are attempting to pivot their messaging toward the cost of living to counter sagging approval ratings linked to inflation and the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Economic issues remain a central battleground. While President Trump has claimed that grocery prices have significantly decreased, federal Consumer Price Index data shows that grocery prices have actually increased by an average of 3.4% since January 2025. The administration has proposed various measures to combat inflation, including tariff adjustments and potential dividends, though these have faced opposition from various sectors.

Social and foreign policy issues are also shaping the race. Some Democratic candidates are distancing themselves from support for transgender athletes in sports to appeal to moderate voters. Meanwhile, the conflict with Iran has drawn criticism from some members of Congress, with concerns raised regarding the president's authority and the potential for military escalation.